Two in three Scots cops want to have access to handgun
Officers ‘ill-equipped’ to keep people safe
ALMOST two-thirds of Scotland’s police officers want access to a handgun, according to research.
A survey by the Scottish Police Federation found that 64 per cent of officers support such a move.
The finding came as about an eighth of the workforce said they believe their existing personal protective equipment is “ineffective”.
Federation bosses said officers feel “vulnerable and ill-equipped”.
The SPF represent 98 per cent of all officers in Scotland, from constables to chief inspectors, as well as cadets and special constables. At their spring conference, the SPF debated the suitability of the protective gear issued to officers by Police Scotland and a more detailed membership study on the issue was authorised.
The findings, published yesterday, say the issue of handguns is “the most controversial” option.
About 77 per cent of serving officers said they would be willing to be trained in handgun use.
In the 25 to 34 age group, the percentage favouring access to a handgun was 73 per cent.
“Younger officers, those most likely to be working in response roles, clearly articulate the risk they feel from firearms and edged weapons,” the report stated.
SPF vice chair David Hamilton said: “This survey shows the clear capability gap that police officers in Scotland currently have. Stretched budgets and an increased threat from criminality and terrorism are making our officers feel ill-equipped to keep people safe. “While we have some of the best specialist firearms resources in the world, it is the officers responding to day-today calls that are at the greatest risk from spontaneous violence.” Assistant Chief Constable Bernard Higgins said: “The safety of officers is paramount and they undergo regular officer safety training, while we regularly review equipment provided to them to ensure it is appropriate.”